Cover Letter Format
Your Contact Information
Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Phone Number
Email Address
Date
Employer Contact Information (if you have it)
Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Salutation
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, (leave out if you don't have a contact)
Body of Cover Letter
The body of your cover letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why
the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow-up.
First Paragraph
The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention
the position you are applying for and where you found the job listing. Include the name of a
mutual contact, if you have one.
Middle Paragraph(s)
The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer.
Mention specifically how your qualifications match the job you are applying for. Remember, you
are interpreting your resume, not repeating it.
Final Paragraph
Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position.
Include information on how you will follow-up.
Complimentary Close
Respectfully yours,
Signature
Handwritten Signature (for a mailed letter)
Typed Signature
Cover Letter Sample1:
April 14, 2006
Mr. William Jackson
Employment Manager
Acme Pharmaceutical Corporation
13764 Jefferson Parkway
Dear Mr. Jackson:
From your company's web site I learned about your need for a sales representative for the
Maryland, and North Carolina areas. I am very interested in this position with Acme
Pharmaceuticals, and believe that my education and employment background are appropriate
for the position.
I have a strong academic background in biology and marketing, and think that I could apply
my combination of knowledge and experience to the health industry. I will complete my
master's degree in marketing in mid-May and will be available to begin employment in early
June.
Enclosed is a copy of my resume, which more fully details my qualifications for the position.
Would be pleased and honored if you could give me a chance as an interview, so I could
prove my self and my skills.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
John M. Edwards
552 Hunt Club Lane, #1
(540) 555-8082
lajohnson@vt.edu